10 Things to consider when hiring a live band/DJ/entertainment

Choosing the perfect live band, DJ, or entertainment for your wedding day can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure you make the right choice. Here are some key things to keep in mind when making this important decision for your big day.

1. Determine your musical preferences.

Before you start searching for the right entertainment, think about the type of music you want at your wedding. Are you a fan of pop hits or do you prefer classic rock? Knowing your taste will help narrow down your search and give potential bands or DJs an idea of what you expect.

2. Consider the atmosphere you want to create.

The type of entertainment you choose will set the tone for your wedding reception. Whether you're looking for a high-energy dance party or an intimate, romantic ambiance, be sure to choose a live band or DJ that can bring your vision to life.

3. Research and read reviews.

Spend some time researching potential entertainers online. Read reviews from other couples who have hired them in the past and ask for recommendations from friends and family members who have recently tied the knot.

4. Check availability.

Popular entertainers may book up well in advance, so be prepared to reach out early during your planning process. Once you find an entertainer that interests you, contact them ASAP and inquire about their availability on your desired date.

5. Ask for demos.

For live bands or DJs, request a demo or attend a live performance to get a feel for their style and see if they're a good fit before making a decision.

6. Discuss equipment needs.

Ensure that the entertainer has all the necessary equipment they need to perform at your venue. This might include speakers, microphones, and lighting. Ask if they provide these elements as part of their package or if they need the venue or you to supply them.

7. Establish a budget.

Before committing to any entertainer, determine your budget for wedding entertainment. Be transparent about your budget and discuss this with potential bands or DJs to see if they can accommodate it and still deliver the experience you envision.

8. Create a do-not-play list.

Every couple has their own idea of which songs are a must-play and others that should never be heard at their wedding. Discuss your preferences with your entertainer, and create a list of songs you'd prefer not to hear at your event.

9. Confirm the setup and breakdown process.

Discuss with your entertainer when they will arrive, how long it takes to set up, and whether they need any help from you or the venue staff. This will help ensure everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.

10. Sign a contract.

Finally, once you've chosen the perfect entertainment for your wedding, be sure to sign a contract that outlines all agreed-upon terms and conditions. This will protect both parties and ensure a smooth process leading up to your big day.

7 Bridal party get together ideas

Planning a bridal party get-together is an exciting time, as friends and family come together to celebrate the upcoming nuptials. But sometimes, brainstorming unique and memorable ideas for the event can be challenging. To help inspire your planning process, here are several captivating bridal party get-together ideas that are sure to leave a lasting impression on all in attendance.

1. Spa Day Retreat

Treat the bridal party to a day of relaxation and pampering with a luxurious spa day. Friends can indulge in soothing massages, facials, and other rejuvenating treatments while sipping on bubbly and sharing stories. This intimate gathering allows for quality bonding time in a serene atmosphere.

2. Creative Crafting Workshops

Unleash your inner artist by signing up for a craft workshop or painting class as a group. Whether it's pottery, jewelry making, or canvas painting, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the customized creations will serve as a wonderful keepsake for each guest to cherish forever.

3. Wine Tasting Tour

Embark on an unforgettable wine-tasting tour through scenic vineyards, where you can sample an array of delicious wines while learning about their production process. Not only does this provide an upscale experience for guests, but it also offers opportunities for fantastic group photos in picturesque settings.

4. Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Put together an interactive scavenger hunt customized for the bride-to-be that involves exploring local landmarks or incorporating elements from her favorite hobbies. This fun activity encourages team building among guests and creates engaging memories that will last long after the wedding bells have chimed.

5. Outdoor Movie Night

Transform your backyard into a cozy outdoor movie theater complete with plush seating, string lights, popcorn, and some classic films or rom-com favorites. Provide warm blankets for snuggling up and offer a selection of sweet treats to indulge in as you all enjoy the movie under the stars.

6. Themed Dress-Up Party

Choose a theme that the bride is passionate about and plan a themed dress-up party accordingly. Whether it's a Great Gatsby-inspired soiree, a 1980s dance party, or a chic tea party, guests can have a blast dressing up in eye-catching attire and immersing themselves in the chosen theme.

7. Group Cooking Class

For foodie brides and their friends, signing up for a group cooking class can provide an entertaining learning experience. Try your hand at crafting exquisite dishes with expert guidance, and then sit down together to enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor.

With these captivating bridal party get-together ideas in mind, planning a memorable event for your bride-to-be and her friends is now an easier task. Remember to take note of her individual tastes and preferences while organizing the celebration, ensuring it's a specially tailored experience that she will treasure forever.

Fall Wedding Inspirations

Embracing the beauty of autumn is a fantastic way to add charm and elegance to your wedding celebration. The season's rich colors, warm textures, and crisp air can inspire a myriad of creative ideas to make your special day truly unforgettable. Here are some fall wedding inspirations to help you infuse your event with the magic of the season.

1. Fall foliage as your backdrop

Instead of using artificial backdrops or decorations, let nature be the star of your wedding! Choose an outdoor venue that showcases the stunning colors of fall – think lush parks, intimate vineyards, or rustic barns surrounded by golden trees.

2. Warm and earthy color palette

Incorporate deep reds, rich oranges, and vibrant yellows as part of your color scheme. From flowers and table linens to bridesmaids' dresses and groomsmen's ties, using autumnal hues will lend a cozy and inviting atmosphere to your wedding.

3. Seasonal blooms

Take advantage of beautiful autumn flowers for your bouquets and centerpieces. Dahlias, mums, asters, and sunflowers are all in season during this time and make for stunning floral arrangements with a natural touch.

4. Rustic details

Add an extra dose of warmth and charm to your wedding with rustic accents such as wooden signs, burlap table runners, twine-wrapped vases, and votive candles displayed in mason jars. These little touches will help create an intimate atmosphere that perfectly reflects the spirit of the season.

5. Comfort food menu

When planning your menu, think about offering comfort foods like warm soups in mini cups or roasted root vegetables as appetizers. For the main course, consider traditional dishes like roast chicken or beef served with hearty sides such as mashed potatoes or squash risotto.

6. Cozy drinks station

Create a dessert bar filled with warm drinks such as hot apple cider or mulled wine to keep your guests feeling nice and toasty. Additionally, a delicious coffee bar with seasonal flavors and toppings can make an enjoyable after-dinner treat for every caffeine lover in attendance.

7. Fall-inspired wedding favors

Send your guests home with thoughtful and unique gifts, like jars of homemade apple butter, mini pumpkin pies, or bags of spiced nuts. Personalize these favors by attaching hand-lettered tags that include your names and wedding date.

By incorporating these fall wedding inspirations into your big day, you'll create an unforgettable celebration that captures the enchanting essence of the season. Remember to embrace the natural beauty of autumn and let your creativity soar as you plan the wedding of your dreams.

Trending Wedding Dress Styles for 2024: Say "I Do" in Style

As we look forward to the wedding trends of 2024, one thing is certain: brides-to-be have plenty of gorgeous dress styles to choose from. With an emphasis on individuality and self-expression, this year's top wedding dress trends showcase a beautiful blend of classic, modern, and unconventional designs. If you're planning a wedding in 2024, keep reading to discover the hottest wedding dress styles to make your special day truly unforgettable.

1. Minimalist Elegance

Simplicity is key when it comes to minimalist wedding dresses in 2024. Clean lines, understated silhouettes, and minimal embellishment allow the bride's natural beauty to shine through. Look for structured fabrics like crepe and silk mikado to achieve this sleek and sophisticated aesthetic.

2. Puff Sleeves and Statement Sleeves

This year, sleeves are making a major statement. From delicate puff sleeves to dramatic balloon sleeves, there's a style for every bride. Pair these eye-catching sleeves with a simple gown for a balanced look or go all out with additional embellishments for a true fashion-forward statement.

3. Enchanting Floral Appliqués

Floral motifs continue their reign in 2024, with intricate appliqués adorning bridal gowns from neckline to hemline. Whether you prefer subtle floral accents or an all-over garden-inspired masterpiece, these romantic touches bring a whimsical and ethereal quality to any wedding dress design.

4. Unexpected Textures

Dare to be different by opting for a gown featuring unexpected textures like feathers, fringe, or pleats. These unique details add visual interest and movement to your wedding dress while allowing you to stand out from the crowd on your big day.

5. Ethereal Layering

In 2024, layering takes center stage as brides seek gowns that combine elements of romance, sophistication, and modernity. Look for lightweight fabrics like tulle, organza, or chiffon to create airy layers that add depth and dimension to your bridal look. For a more contemporary vibe, consider incorporating touches of lace or beading for added impact.

6. Plunging Necklines

If you're looking for a more daring bridal look, plunging necklines are the way to go in 2024. These dramatic designs elongate the torso and draw attention to the bride's décolletage, making them an ideal choice for those looking to make a bold statement.

7. Sustainable and Eco-friendly Dresses

As couples become more environmentally conscious, sustainable and eco-friendly wedding dresses are steadily gaining popularity. These gowns typically utilize ethically sourced materials such as organic cotton, recycled lace, or biodegradable fabric dyes. Not only will you look good in your eco-friendly wedding dress, but you'll feel good knowing your dress aligns with your values.

Eleven Hearts Studios Receives 2023 Best of Falls Church Award

We appreciate this acknowledgment of my work and my studio. Thank you for your continual support and for the motivation you inspire.

FALLS CHURCH August 30, 2023 -- Eleven Hearts Studios has been selected for 2023 Best of Falls Church Award in the Photographer category by the Falls Church Award Program.

Each year, the Falls Church Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small businesses through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Falls Church area a great place to live, work, and play.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category.

The 2023 Falls Church Award Program was established to recognize the best local businesses in our community. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Falls Church Award Program and data provided by third parties.

Recognition is given to Eleven Hearts Studios that have shown the ability to use its best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.

How To Create An Event Hashtag In 6 Steps

In today's digital age, having a unique and compelling event hashtag is essential for promoting your event on social media platforms. Creating an event hashtag is more than just putting the "#" symbol in front of a few words - it should be well-thought-out, enticing, and relatable. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of creating an effective event hashtag that will attract attention and boost your online presence.

1. Define the purpose of your event hashtag

Before you start brainstorming for catchy words or phrases, it's crucial to understand the primary purpose of your event hashtag. It can serve multiple purposes – raising awareness about your event, promoting user-generated content, driving engagement, or tracking conversations. Identifying the main objective will help you make better decisions as you create your hashtag.

2. Keep it simple and memorable

The best event hashtags are easy to remember and type. Keep in mind that your audience will likely be using their smartphones to engage with the hashtag on social media platforms. Therefore, keeping it short and sweet not only makes it easier for attendees to use but also leaves more room for their comments or images in each post.

3. Make it relevant and unique

To ensure that your hashtag gains traction among users, it should relate to your event theme or name. Use keywords that directly connect with your target audience while ensuring that your selected phrase is unique – do a quick search on social media platforms before finalizing it.

4. Test different variations

Experiment with various forms of words or phrases as you narrow down potential hashtags for your event. Utilize capitalization to distinguish words within the tag and consider adding numbers or abbreviations if necessary.

5. Encourage user participation

Once you've settled on a perfect hashtag, promote its usage across all promotional materials such as invitations, banners, posters, and even projected onto big screens at the venue itself. By highlighting the tag across all platforms related to your event, you'll naturally inspire attendees to use it and create content, which will further increase your event's online presence.

6. Monitor engagement and interactions

During and after the event, keep an eye on how people are using your hashtag across various social media channels. This step can provide valuable insights into audience reactions, popular topics, and potential areas of improvement for future events.

Follow these simple steps to create a standout event hashtag for your next big event. By establishing a unique and engaging tag, you'll enhance the online presence of your gathering and encourage user-generated content that will leave a lasting impression. So get started – your ideal hashtag awaits!

5 Reasons To Hire A Wedding Planner

Wedding planning can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience for many couples. With countless decisions to make and numerous tasks to juggle, it's no wonder that many people turn to wedding planners to help them navigate the process. Hiring a wedding planner comes with numerous benefits that can make your special day even more memorable. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider hiring a professional wedding planner for your big day.

1. Save time and reduce stress

Planning a wedding can be incredibly time-consuming, with couples often spending hundreds of hours coordinating every detail. By hiring a wedding planner, you can save valuable time that you can spend enjoying your engagement and focusing on other priorities. Furthermore, a wedding planner's expertise will help alleviate stress by handling all the logistical aspects and troubleshooting any issues that may arise.

2. Expertise and experience

Wedding planners have extensive knowledge about the wedding industry and have likely encountered various challenges in the past. With their wealth of experience, they can offer invaluable advice on everything from selecting the perfect venue to choosing the right vendors. They also stay up-to-date on current trends and have established relationships with vendors, which can result in better pricing and access to exclusive services.

3. Customization and personalization

A professional wedding planner will work closely with you to bring your unique vision to life while also offering creative ideas and solutions for making your special day truly unforgettable. They will ensure that every detail is tailored to your tastes, preferences, and budget, creating a personalized experience that reflects your personality as a couple.

4. Budget management

Staying on budget can be one of the most challenging aspects of wedding planning. A knowledgeable wedding planner will help you create a realistic budget based on your priorities, manage vendor contracts, find cost-saving alternatives, and negotiate discounts, all while ensuring quality service.

5. Access to Exclusive Deals and Discounts: Wedding planners have access to contacts and connections within the industry that they’ve built up over time. Through their relationship with vendors, they can secure exclusive deals and discounts on various services such as catering or photography.

5 Bouquet Ideas For The Brides

There are countless options when it comes to choosing a bouquet for a bride. The right bouquet can complement the bride's dress and overall wedding theme, while also reflecting her personal style. Whether you're a traditionalist or prefer something more unique, here are a few bouquet ideas that are sure to inspire.

Classic White Roses

For the bride who wants an elegant and timeless look, you can't go wrong with a bouquet of white roses. Symbolizing purity and love, white roses are a classic choice that never goes out of style. This simple and sophisticated bouquet will complement any wedding dress and add a touch of romance to the overall look.

Colorful Wildflowers

If you're a bride who loves nature and wants a more relaxed and bohemian vibe, consider a bouquet of colorful wildflowers. With their vibrant hues and natural beauty, wildflowers can add a pop of color and a touch of whimsy to your wedding day. From daisies to poppies, there are countless varieties to choose from, allowing you to create a bouquet that perfectly matches your personality.

Cascading Orchids

For a more dramatic and luxurious look, opt for a bouquet of cascading orchids. Known for their exotic beauty and graceful appearance, orchids add a touch of elegance to any bridal ensemble. The cascading shape of this bouquet adds movement and drama, making it the perfect choice for a glamorous and sophisticated bride.

Rustic Sunflowers

If you're planning a rustic or country-themed wedding, consider a bouquet of sunflowers. With their warm and cheerful color, sunflowers bring a sense of joy and happiness to any celebration. Pair them with other rustic elements like burlap and lace for a charming and down-to-earth look.

Modern Succulents

For the non-traditional bride who wants something unique and modern, a bouquet of succulents is the perfect choice. These low-maintenance plants come in a variety of shapes and colors, making them a versatile option for any bride. The architectural quality of succulents adds an interesting texture to the bouquet, creating a striking and contemporary look.

Remember, the key to choosing the perfect bouquet is to consider your personal style, wedding theme, and overall aesthetic. Whether you prefer a classic and timeless look or want to make a bold statement, there's a bouquet out there that's perfect for you. So embrace your individuality and have fun with the process. After all, your bouquet should be a reflection of your unique personality and the love you share with your partner.

What are the most popular Bridal Lace Ideas of 2023

When it comes to planning your wedding, every detail matters. From the flowers to the invitations, you want everything to be perfect. And one of the most important details of all is the wedding dress. The dress you choose will not only make you feel beautiful, but it will also be a reflection of your personal style and the overall theme of your wedding.

One trend that has been gaining popularity in recent years is lace wedding dresses. Lace adds a touch of elegance and romance to any gown, and it's a timeless choice that never goes out of style. Whether you're dreaming of a classic, vintage-inspired look or a modern, bohemian vibe, there's a lace wedding dress out there for you.

One of the benefits of choosing a lace wedding dress is the variety of styles available. From delicate, beaded lace to bold, statement-making designs, there's something for every bride. You can opt for a full lace gown for a traditional look, or choose a dress with lace accents for a more subtle touch. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even mix and match different lace patterns for a unique, one-of-a-kind gown.

In addition to its beauty, lace also offers practical benefits. Many lace wedding dresses are made with a layer of tulle or satin underneath the lace, which adds structure and support. This means you can feel confident and comfortable all day long, whether you're walking down the aisle or tearing up the dance floor. And if your wedding is outdoors, lace is a great choice because it's lightweight and breathable.

When it comes to accessorizing a lace wedding dress, the options are endless. You can go for a classic, minimalist look with simple pearl earrings and a sleek updo, or you can add some sparkle with a statement necklace and a glamorous, Old Hollywood hairstyle. And don't forget the veil - a lace-edged veil is the perfect finishing touch to complete your bridal look.

So if you're currently in the process of planning your wedding, consider a lace wedding dress. Not only will it make you feel like a true bride, but it will also create a timeless and elegant look that you'll cherish for years to come. Whether you choose a full lace gown or a dress with lace accents, you can't go wrong with this romantic and versatile fabric. So go ahead, embrace the lace, and let your inner bride shine on your special day. When it comes to planning your wedding, every detail matters. From the flowers to the invitations, you want everything to be perfect. And one of the most important details of all is the wedding dress. The dress you choose will not only make you feel beautiful, but it will also be a reflection of your personal style and the overall theme of your wedding.

Ultimate Playlist For Your Wedding Reception

From "I Will Always Love You" to "At Last," classic songs can add the perfect touch to your wedding or special event day. Whether you're looking for slow love songs or upbeat jams, there are many classic tunes that will make your day even more memorable.

I'm always a fan of classic music, From Michael Jackson's timeless hits to Neil Diamond's romantic ballads, there are plenty of classic songs that can add the perfect touch to your special day. Whether you're in need of slow songs for a first dance or upbeat tunes for your wedding party, there is something for everyone.

Another great choice for your event playlist is Dua Lipa's “New Rules”. This upbeat tune is sure to get guests out on the dance floor and fill your event with energy.

If you're looking for a classic slow song, Michael Jackson's “The Way You Make Me Feel” is sure to be a hit with your guests. This pop classic is sure to fill the room with love and romance.

If you're looking for romantic classics, there are several great choices. Neil Diamond's "Sweet Caroline," Stevie Wonder's "For Once In My Life" and Bebe Rex ha's "Meant To Be" are all perfect choices.

For a more modern selection, consider adding some of the top hits from Bruno Mars, Elton John, or John Legend. Their upbeat and catchy tunes will surely get the party started.

If you're looking for country music, Shania Twain's “Man! I Feel Like a Woman” is sure to

be a hit with guests. This classic and iconic song is sure to bring some fun country vibes to your event day.

As you plan your event day playlist, it's important to select songs that are meaningful and special. For your walk-on music or wedding party entrance songs, consider a classic like Marvin Gaye's “Ain't No Mountain High Enough”. This soulful classic is sure to bring a smile to everyone's face as soon as it starts playing.

For the rest of your playlist, consider a mix of classic songs and modern pop hits. With a combination of both, you are sure to create an unforgettable event day soundtrack.

Finally, if you're looking for something special for your walk-on music or wedding party entrance songs, consider Daft Punk's “Get Lucky.” This upbeat jam will surely get all of your guests up and dancing as soon as it starts playing.

How to Choose a Wedding Photographer in 20 Steps

Wedding photos are a lasting memory of one of the most important days in your life, so it is essential to make sure you choose the right photographer for your wedding. Here are twenty tips to help you pick the perfect photographer for your special day

1. Check Out Their Portfolio: It is important to research a prospective photographer’s work, so you can be sure they have experience capturing weddings and know how to get the best shots.

2. Look For Quality: Make sure you look for quality in both the images and editing. You should look for sharp, well-composed photos that show off your venue, dress, and other details of the day.

3. Get Recommendations: Talk to friends or family members who have recently been married and ask about their experience with their photographer.

4. Have A Budget: It is important to have a budget in mind before you start looking for a photographer, so you can make sure they fit within your price range. Don’t forget to factor any wedding photography costs into your budget so you don’t get a surprise bill at the end of the day.

5. Make Sure They Are Insured: Make sure the photographer is insured and has their own liability insurance so that if something goes wrong, they are covered.

6. Meet In Person: Once you have chosen a few photographers, make sure you meet them in person so that when selecting a wedding photographer, you should consider their artistic style. Are they traditional or modern? Do you prefer classic posed shots or more candid photos? Each photographer has a distinct style that should fit with your vision for the day. Make sure to view the photographer's portfolio to get an idea of what kind of quality and styles they produce.

7. Experience is another important factor to consider when choosing a photographer. Ask the photographer how many weddings they have photographed and what type of events they are experienced in. Also, inquire about their comfort level with wedding size and locations to make sure they can handle the complexity of your special day.

8. The cost of services should also be taken into account when selecting a wedding photographer. Make sure to get an itemized list of what you are paying for, including prints and albums. Ask about any additional fees that may be added such as retouching or travel expenses. You should also check to see if the photographer has any discounts or packages available to help save you money.

9. It is important to ensure that you feel comfortable with the photographer and their staff. When meeting them in person, ask them questions to get an idea of their temperament and professionalism.

10. Make sure you get a contract that outlines the terms and conditions of hiring the photographer for your wedding day. This should include the cost, hours of coverage, timeline, rights to images, and other important details.

11. Ensure that they are available on your wedding date before signing any contracts. Ask about backup plans in case they are not available due to illness or other circumstances.

12. Quality and Style: Every wedding photographer has a unique style, so make sure that the photographer you choose has a style that matches your vision for your special day. Take time to look through their portfolio and read reviews from previous clients to make sure they have the quality you're looking for. The photography style of your wedding photos will be a lasting memory of your special day, so make sure to choose a photographer whose style fits your vision for the day. Different photographers have different approaches, from traditional posed shots to more candid and photojournalistic styles. Look through their portfolio and read reviews from previous clients to get a sense of their work and decide if it’s the right fit for you.

13. Price Range: Set a budget before you start searching for a wedding photographer. Make sure to factor in additional costs for prints, albums, and other services the photographer might offer. Also, consider if you'd like to hire a second photographer or an assistant.

14. Communication: An experienced wedding photographer should be responsive to your inquiries and available for meetings prior to the wedding day. Ask questions about their process, get ideas on what type of photos you'd like taken, and find out what their turnaround time is like.

15. Experience: Ask how many weddings the photographer has shot previously, and if they have any awards or recognition for their work. You want to make sure they are able to handle the size of your event and know how to capture all the special moments from your day.

16. Backup equipment and arrangements they have in case of an emergency. Type of equipment they use and how many cameras they carry. Ask if they have backup equipment and arrangements they have in case of an emergency. Make sure to read reviews from previous clients to see if their customer service is up to par.

17. Contract: A professional wedding photographer should provide you with a written contract that outlines the terms of your agreement, including payment details and copyright information. Be sure to review this document carefully before signing so that you are comfortable with

18. Aftercare: Make sure to check what kind of aftercare the photographer offers, such as consultations after the wedding day if you need help selecting photos or designing an album. Ask about their archiving policy to ensure your photos are saved in case of any future disasters.

19. References: Make sure you read reviews from previous clients and ask for references. You want to make sure the photographer you choose is reliable and trustworthy, so it's important to get feedback from others who have used their services.

20. Ask about the wedding album they offer, and if they can customize it to your liking. Also, inquire about what type of materials they use for the album and how long it will take to complete. Find out if there are any additional fees associated with the album and ask for examples of their work so you can get an idea of the quality you'll receive.

Lastly, make sure that you are comfortable with the contract you sign with the wedding photographer and that it includes all your expectations. Find out how the perfect wedding photographer interacts with guests during the wedding day. Do they prefer to stick to the background or take a more interactive approach? You want to make sure your photographer is comfortable working with your guests so they can capture all of those beautiful, candid moments that make up your special day.

How does wedding photography workflow with a documentary photography approach by Eleven Hearts Studios

Wedding photography is an art form that captures precious moments from a couple's special day. From posed family pictures to candid shots of the ceremony and reception, wedding photographers have the skills and experience to document a couple’s love story in images that will be treasured for years to come.

In this article, we'll look at how wedding photography works and explain what couples can expect from their photographer on the big day.

When couples begin planning for their wedding, one of the first decisions they must make is choosing a photographer. It's important to find someone with a style that matches the couple's vision for their wedding photos. Many photographers offer packages that bundle engagement shoots, bridal portraits, and full-day coverage of the ceremony and reception. Prices vary depending on experience and the number of hours the couple needs to be photographed.

Once a couple has chosen a photographer, they will typically meet for an initial consultation. During this meeting, the couple and the photographer will discuss expectations, timelines, costs, and any other information that could be important for the day. This is also a great time for couples to ask questions about the photographer’s style and technique.

On the day of the wedding, the photographer will arrive early to set up and scout out good locations for candid shots. During the ceremony, most photographers take a combination of posed and candid shots. This is followed by family photos and portraits of just the bride and groom. After the ceremony, many photographers will stay to capture moments from the reception, including dances, cake-cutting, and other special events.

Wedding photography is a great way for couples to capture all the special moments from their big day. Through careful planning and selecting a photographer who understands the couple’s vision, couples can ensure they get beautiful pictures that will last a lifetime.

Once the day of the wedding has come to a close, the photographer will take the time to edit and refine the photos. This process can take up to several weeks for full-day coverage, as photographers are delicate when perfecting each image. During this time, couples may receive previews of their photos so they can begin sorting through them and selecting favorites. In some cases, photographers will provide a finished album, prints, and digital versions of the photos.

Wedding photography is an art form that captures memories for couples to cherish for years to come. Through careful preparation and an experienced photographer, couples can ensure they will have beautiful photos that tell the story of their special day.

For couples planning their wedding, it is important to find a professional photographer who understands their vision for the photos. It is important to schedule an initial consultation with the photographer to discuss expectations, timelines, costs, and other information that might be relevant to the day. On the actual wedding day, a good photographer will arrive early and scout out good locations for candid shots. During the ceremony, they will take a combination of posed and candid shots. After the ceremony, the photographer will stay to capture moments from the reception. Finally, after the wedding is over, the photographer will edit and refine the photos before sending them to the couple. With careful planning and an experienced photographer, couples can ensure they get beautiful pictures that will last a lifetime.

Once the wedding photos have been edited and refined, couples should take time to review them. It’s important that the photos reflect special moments from the day as well as any posed photographs they requested. While couples can view their photos online, they should also request a printed copy of their album or prints of their favorite shots. This way, they can display the photos in their home or share them with family and friends.

Wedding photography is an important part of capturing memories from a couple’s big day. With careful planning and an experienced photographer, couples can ensure they get beautiful photos that will last a lifetime.

Tips You Don’t Want to Miss to Make Your Wedding Pictures Unforgettable.

THE PERFECT PHOTO GUIDE FOR BRIDES

TIP #1 Hire a photographer that you can trust Building trust between a photographer and a bride is crucial. You will spend one of the most important days of your life very closely with someone who just met a couple of months ago.

.You should not forget that you spend a lot of time finding the best photographer who can represent your vision through their images. You need to trust that they’re constantly aware of the composition, light, and other circumstances with you in mind. They know what is best for you and they will let you know what will work the best for specific circumstances. Even if it seems so obvious listening to your photographer, might be challenging on your wedding day to hear what they want to communicate with you. Find a photographer that you can trust and surrender their artistic vision. 

Since photos will stay with you forever, the wedding photographer you choose will make a great difference. 

The Concept Of Mood Boards

Today I want to introduce you to the concept of Mood Boards and why it is such a great idea to make one.

Creating MOOD Boards

Creating a mood board is helping you to establish a strong foundation for what you want on your wedding day.

It helps you to get organized. A wedding photography mode board conveys the look and essence of what to expect on your wedding day.

I like digital options like Pinterest. You can create, collect and share your boards with your photographer.

I also recommend crafty notebooks that you can add and remove images from magazines, brochures, and pictures that you took on your own.

To explore your unique style and interest, either going digital or not, mood boards can be an excellent tool for finding your true self.

Keeping it simple
In the beginning, don’t worry about all the details and just collect anything that you like to see on your wedding day. That's what a mood board is!

When you get closer to the big day, you can create another mood board from your already curated one to show your best intentions and your taste.

These finalized images will be so helpful for you to communicate with your makeup artist, hairstylist, photographer, florist, etc.

With a personalized mood board in hand, it is quite hard to go wrong because it will present the way you want your wedding to look and feel who you are as a couple.

Love,

Gigi

The Saber Arch Exit At Washington DC Military Wedding.

Symbolically, the arch serves as loyalty to the couple by their new military family.

Eleven Hearts Studios is in Top 20 again by EXPERTISE!

I was clueless that you were contemplating me for this prize, therefore, it comes as full amazement. The only thing I can be able to express is my sincere gratefulness.

I am extremely gratified about this award. I want to appreciate the members of the jury for choosing our studio as one of the best portrait photography studios of the year and showing great respect for us with this prize.

It generates more eagerness to do my job dedicatedly. Thank you for acknowledging our potentiality as a portrait photography studio in Washington, D.C.

Mother and Brides. Such an Amazing Bond.

The role of parents in one’s life is very huge to be thanked enough. From your childhood to your present, you won’t be able to find a single day without their contribution.

The same will be on your wedding day.

They play a big role in making the day spectacular for everyone including you.

It’s a day for you with extensive importance, but you can’t ignore their role when you were stressed in making decisions, and even funding your affairs for the wedding by giving their time, support, and money.

Parents deserve a huge acknowledgment.

Mother of the Bride is kissing her forehead just before the ceremony.

Here we go with some of our favorite ideas of how to express your gratitude to your parents making them feel momentous particularly on your wedding day.

1. Praise them in the ceremony: They deserve to be praised and recognized. The wedding day is always a very busy day, you should place sometime in the wedding day plans in order to have a speech in between a function to show your appreciation towards your parents. It would be a very sound and fascinating idea for them. They will love it.

2. Write some notes: It’s always a very touching and persistent way to express your gratitude to your parents. After a busy and tiring day, they would look for something relaxing, take advantage of it. Write a note to both of them to voice your thankfulness to them. It will surely make them feel relaxed and loved.

3. Donations on behalf of them: some parents are always passionate about donation, especially for charity or to the church. You can avail this opportunity for thankfulness by donating to the cause which is their favorite one.

4. A Song of their wedding: Paying tribute to something they are emotional about. You can do this by playing their wedding song on your wedding day for the first dance.

5. The dedication of your wedding to them: The power of dedication can’t be ignored, especially if that is for you. Your wedding was surely a much-awaited event for them too. You can dedicate it to them, which will surely be mesmerized for them.

Moreover, it’s all about love. Show your love and care for them. They won’t forget your love. The way you express will make it more memorable.

Do it!

Love, by Gigi

Love in the times Of corona

Since last March there were so many things that were changed in the world because of the lack of certainty what Corona brought in to our lives.

I know my brides like to know every single detail when they are planning their wedding day. For all of us in this profession knows really well that wedding planning is something that you need to start at least a year earlier.

Under the light of pandemic vision, things got really challenging and the most important thing Becomes and stays healthy for all of us.
Planning a year ahead became so unrealistic within a couple of months to the extent that the uncertainty is becoming a new form of planning.

Canceled plans and uncertainties for Spring and Summer of 2020 went truly challenging for everyone in the wedding business.

I found myself meditating more regularly and hoping for more clarity for dealing with the difficulties when times arrives.

To learn how to accept uncertainty and live accordingly as an artist and a businesswoman was one of my favorite things that I have had a chance to practice at the Corona times.

I am so thankful for the opportunity what Corona inner journey brought into my life and I can not wait to go back to my fast-paced life with More Insights to share through my images.

Let’s look up the sky and wish to better days.

Love by Gigi

Thankful for my squarespace mobile app.

It has been a huge struggle for me to post a new entry on my wedding blog. Plan ahead, take notes, copy-paste, schedule to be in front of my computer and so on…

I was postponing using the Squarespace App for such a long time. The more I start giving it a chance the more I became addicted to it.

Posting a blog is a completely different experience right now with a Squarespace App.

For instance, I am waiting at the dentist office right now I launch the App and hit new entry and start writing.

Knowing that the whole experience can be interrupted in a minute does not irritate me at all. I know that I will be back to finish it in a couple of hours without waiting to go back to the studio in front of my computer.

I can also make so many changes for my website as well just by using the Squarespace App. I remember the times when I had to learn Html codes to make the smallest changes for my website or relying on other people’s availability to get your website running.

I love using Squarespace.

It has been 10 years now that my business is in their hands.

Thank you!